Dealing with Fever in Newborn and Babies

A fever means that your child's body is fighting an infection. Fever by itself doesn't mean the child is seriously sick. A low to medium fever is part of the body's defense mechanism for the usual minor illnesses of childhood.

Fever in an infant
A fever in a small infant must be taken seriously. Rectal temperatures over 100.4 degrees F are considered elevated. It’s not advisable use an ear thermometer at this age.

What you can do
If your baby's temperature is up, remove one layer of clothing and check his temperature again in 15 to 20 minutes. If it isn't back to normal in that time, call your healthcare provider.

What to tell your healthcare provider
Report whether or not your baby is eating well, easy to awaken, alert or showing any other signs of illness. Mention whether or not your baby has been exposed to any illnesses in the last week or two, and whether he has any chronic health problems.

Fever in an older baby or toddler
As a general rule, fevers over 103 degrees F indicate a more serious illness than fevers under 103 degrees F, but how sick the child acts is more important than the height of the temperature.

What you can do.
If your baby is over three months old, give him acetaminophen to reduce the fever or discomfort if you wish. Never give a baby aspirin. Warm baths also bring down fevers in children, provided they don't get chilled and start to shiver. Shivering means that the body is actually increasing its temperature, which is the opposite of what you want.

What to tell your healthcare provider.
Keep a close eye on your child’s temperature. If you become concerned or if he’s starting to look ill, report it to your healthcare provider.